Graphing Linear Equations
Plotting equations on graph paper
Explore how linear equations create straight lines on a graph. Adjust the slope (m) and y-intercept (b) to see how the line changes. The equation follows the format: y = mx + b
y = 1x + 0
How It Works:
The graph shows the linear equation y = mx + b. The slope (m) determines the steepness of the line, and the y-intercept (b) is where the line crosses the y-axis.
The Mathematics Behind Linear Equations
Key Concepts:
Linear equations create straight lines when graphed:
- Slope (m): Measures the steepness of the line (rise over run)
- Y-intercept (b): The point where the line crosses the y-axis (when x=0)
- Positive slope: Line rises from left to right
- Negative slope: Line falls from left to right
- Zero slope: Horizontal line
Graphing Steps:
1. Start by plotting the y-intercept (b) on the y-axis
2. Use the slope (m) to find another point (rise up/down, run right)
3. Draw a straight line through the points
